How a Teen's Piggy Bank Changed Soldier Communication Forever

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery.

In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Rob Bergquist, co-founder and Executive Director of Cell Phones for Soldiers. Rob shares the inspiring journey of how he and his sister Brittany started the nonprofit organization at the ages of 12 and 13 to help military members stay connected with their families. Find out how they’re continuing to innovate and serve the military community through programs like Minutes that Matter, Helping Heroes Home, and future plans, including the launch of their Soldiers Mobile Program.

“Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes the military community who they are.

Ep. 80 – How a Teen's Piggy Bank Changed Soldier Communication Forever

In today's interconnected world, access to communication is a fundamental necessity. Yet, for many of our service members and veterans, this basic need can sometimes be out of reach. This episode brings us an inspiring story of how two young siblings turned a moment of empathy into a transformative movement with their nonprofit organization, Cell Phones for Soldiers.

The Mission to Help Soldiers Call Home

In 2004, Rob Bergquist and his sister Brittany were just 12 and 13 years old when they felt moved by the plight of a soldier burdened with an $8,000 phone bill upon returning from Iraq. Motivated by a personal connection—two cousins actively serving overseas—the siblings decided to act. What began as a small fundraiser with a modest $21 collected from their classmates blossomed into a nationwide initiative. Encouraged by supportive parents and a local bank that believed in their mission, Rob and Brittany quickly garnered $8,000 to pay off the soldier's debt. Their swift success catapulted them into the national spotlight, forming the foundation of Cell Phones for Soldiers.

Expanding to Help More Service Members

Initially focused on providing calling cards to service members, Cell Phones for Soldiers has since grown exponentially. Through innovative methods like recycling used cell phones and electronics, the organization has funded over 450 million minutes of free talk time for deployed troops. As technology evolved, so did the nonprofit. With increased connectivity becoming available globally, the demand for calling cards diminished, prompting the Bergquists to adapt their services.

In 2012, they expanded their mission by establishing the Helping Heroes Home program, offering emergency assistance grants to veterans in need. More recently, the launch of Cell Phones for Soldiers Mobile furthers their reach, providing free smartphones and a year of service to veterans. This initiative aims to connect 30,000 veterans over the next three years, helping them access vital resources and maintain ties with loved ones during their transition to civilian life.

Partnerships and Future Goals of Cell Phones for Soldiers

Rob emphasizes the importance of partnerships in the organization’s success. Collaborations with third parties like logistics specialists that help manage the influx of donated phones, help ensure maximum resource efficiency. Additionally, partnering with local organizations and service officer networks allows Cell Phones for Soldiers to target veterans effectively and connect them with the right resources.

Looking to the future, Rob is excited about the potential of a Cell Phones for Soldiers mobile app. This app will enhance the service by providing veterans with access to essential local resources at the touch of a button. Rob envisions a robust community of veterans supporting each other, with phone bills potentially contributing to the sustainability of this growing network.

Family-Driven Dedication

A testament to its widespread success is the unwavering family involvement from day one. Both Brittany and Rob have been pivotal in navigating the nonprofit’s course, celebrating their achievements and learning from challenges. As Rob reflects on his father's recent passing, he finds deep motivation in honoring his dad through ongoing service, emphasizing that every connected veteran is a tribute to his father's legacy.

Get Involved with Cell Phones for Soldiers

Cell Phones for Soldiers relies on support from individuals and corporations alike. Whether it’s donating an old phone, becoming a drop-off location, or fostering corporate partnerships for device turnover, every contribution makes a significant impact. As Rob often advises aspiring non-profiters, the key to their enduring success lies in staying focused on the mission while being willing to innovate and adapt.

Rob and his family continue to inspire with their commitment to bridging gaps in communication for those who serve. With over two decades of service, Cell Phones for Soldiers stands as a beacon of support for veterans seeking to stay connected with those who matter most. As technology advances, so too will the creative solutions and profound impact of this family-run organization, ensuring that no veteran is ever left without a lifeline.

Military Minute

Jodi introduces the Military Minute segment of the show, beginning by closing out last episode’s Military Minute.

● Last episode’s Military Minute:

o Which musical group sings the song Step by Step?

o Which musical group sings the song Gimme Three Steps?

o Which musical artist sings the song 1, 2 Step?

● Answer: NSYNC, ZZ Top, and Ciara

● This week’s Military Minute question: In what year was the first public mobile phone call?

● Watch for Facebook and Instagram posts about this episode.

● Answer with the correct answer and you plus a charity of your choice can each win $50.

● After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months.

Tom closes the episode by asking listeners to go to www.afbank.com and subscribe to the show, as well as leave a rating and comment on your favorite podcast platform such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Join us to hear how to better navigate your finances, military life, and the crossroads of the two.

Visit www.afbank.com